Technical data

Editing Projects with Different Versions of STEP 7
7.5 Displaying Modules Configured with Later STEP 7 Versions or Optional Packages
Programming with STEP 7
Manual, 05/2010, A5E02789666-01 191
Working with a Dummy Module in the SIMATIC Manager
The dummy module is visible below the station level. All subordinate objects at this level such as
user programs, system data and connection tables are visible and can be downloaded from the
SIMATIC Manager.
You also open, edit, compile and load the user program (such as its blocks).
However, the following restrictions apply to projects with dummy blocks:
• You cannot copy a station containing a dummy block.
• In the menu command "Save project as..." the option "with reorganization" cannot be applied
completely.
The dummy module and all references and subordinate objects of these modules will be
missing in the copied and reorganized project (for example, the user program).
Working with a Dummy Module in the Hardware Configuration
The dummy module is displayed at the slot where it was configured.
You can open this module, but you cannot change its parameters or download to it. The module
properties are limited to those given in the "Dummy" tab property sheet. The station configuration
cannot be changed (such as by adding new modules).
Hardware diagnostics (such as opening a station online) are also possible (to a limited extent: new
diagnostic options and texts are not recognized.).
Working with a Dummy Module in the Network Configuration
The dummy module is also displayed in NetPro. In this case, the name of the module on the station
is preceded by question mark.
A project with a dummy module can only be opened write-protected in NetPro.
If you open the project in write-protected mode, you can display and print the network
configuration. You can also obtain the connection status, which will at least contain the information
supported by the STEP 7 version being used.
In general, however, you cannot make any changes or save, compile or download them.
Subsequent Installation of Modules
If the module is from a later version of STEP 7 and there is a HW update available for it, you can
replace the dummy module with the "real" one. Upon opening the station, you receive information
on the necessary HW updates or optional packages, and you can install them using the dialog. As
an alternative, you can install the modules from the start menu or in HW Config by selecting the
menu command Options > Install HW Updates.